A Dog Named Christmas

Not too long ago I turned on the TV and there was a Christmas Movie. I started to watch it. I believe it was called "A Dog Named Christmas.".It was about a stray dog and a family that took him in temporarily. I was watching it and all of the sudden the father in the movie had a flashback to his time in Vietnam. He had found a dog that was hiding and thought it was the NVA. He fed it and it become their companion. Along with this flashback was incoming and he was badly wounded in the leg and was being airlifted out. He was yelling about the dog and where was his dog.  

When I began watching this show on TV it appeared to be just a show about a lost dog. I never imagined that it would include a significant part about a wounded Vietnam Veteran and his not wanting to get close to another dog, his injuries sustained in the attack, etc. There is no way I can explain the emotions and memories I had at that moment.

I don't think there is ever a day that goes by that there isn't a smell, word, event, news item, etc. that brings those memories flooding back to me. There are times I wish I would forget about it all but, forgetting, means I forget about all those I served with and those who crossed my path. Something I do not want to ever forget.

Quilts of Valor

A few months ago I was asked about putting my name in for a "Quilt of Valor". I had seen these quilts and must say I really would like to have one. But I thought of those who I felt more deserving. However, I did say OK as I felt it was not going to happen and I would not be approved. A month ago I was called and asked to information on my service history and given two dates to pick from for quilt presentation. I was shocked I was approved and worried how other veterans would feel with me standing by them. I gave minimal service information with quite a bit on my Vietnam Service. As usual I felt less worthy than those out in the jungle, those wounded and those who died. 

I told a family member and my wife knew about the quilt but there didn't seem to be any interest in it or my getting it. Feeling alone is something I have felt has a Nam vet and lack of support was nothing new. I went to the event and was shocked by the number of veterans and a few active military who were getting a quilt. After the Colors were presented, we were called up individually and stood as the speaker told of our military history that had been provided. Some had much detail and some very little. When my time came I went to the front, nervous and somewhat scared. The event speaker told those attending of my service in Vietnam and what I did during my tour. She referred to my letters and how horrifying they were and then she seemed to be holding back tears.. She finished by stating the few facts on military citations and then finished. I was then presented with my quilt that was wrapped around me.

After the presentations, we all stood for pictures as a group with our quilts wrapped around us. Then, the "Daughters of the American Revolution" had all the Vietnam Veterans come up. They spoke of how we were never welcomed home and that it had been officially 50 years since the war. They then pinned the 50 year Vietnam pin of us that states thank you for your service on the back and gave us each a certificate.

Families came up and hugged their relative, friend, etc. and some grand kids held signs that stated "We love you grandpa.". At that time I had a lady come up really crying and hardly able to speak. She hugged me and said thank you. Her husband had been wounded in Vietnam and she said he returned because of people like me and that perhaps he was even at our hospital. The spokesperson came over and hugged me and was crying and stated her thanks and we chatted a little. A nurse came over and actually kissed me on the cheek. She said I am a nurse and have worked in an ER. I know what you went through and "We stand with you.". There were some other conversations that went on and then it was over.

I had actually seen the Nut Dr. a few days before at the VA. I told him of this event and the lack of support of my family which he is aware of. He stated that the day was for me and not anyone else and that I deserved to be recognized, especially with what I encountered in Vietnam. I felt that way as well but was putting my concern for family first as how would they feel if not invited, left out, etc. But he was right, that was my time.

I was overwhelmed by the event and those who came over to speak to me and grateful. It is something that I will never forget.